Study Tour of South Korea

What were the biggest cultural differences you experienced?

Everyone being so kind and people don't steal and will help others a lot. Yes we have this too in Canada, but I left my phone in a taxi and my friend left hers in the bus and both times they were returned and our friend from South Korea kept assuring us it was ok because we are in Korea and Koreans don't steal. Another one is that they stare a lot. Ulsan doesn't have many tourists and so we were stared at a lot, but unlike Canada, they won't look away if you catch them staring.

Was there anything you did in your free time that you recommend to others?

Bamboo galaxy forest. Fireworks at Ilsan beach

On average, what was the weather like?

SO SO HOT. Averaged 30 degrees every day and it is very humid.

Additional comments about Ulsan?

Amazing city but even better people in the program. It is easy to get around if you have the right navigation apps or the right tour guide/ friend ;)

Were the following provided?

• Airport pickup upon arrival - no
• Bedding - no
• Kitchen - no

What is the best way for students to travel to the university upon arrival?

Taxi because of all the baggage. Way less stress. Basically you land in Incheon, you take a bus to Seoul, you take the ktx from Seoul to Ulsan. NOTE: If you are buying your KTX tickets when you are in the Seoul station, it must be done online and you must be able to receive a text confirmation to the phone number the credit card is attached to, or else the payment can't go through

Any additional comments about your host university?

I can't even put into words how amazing they were. The program was perfectly organized and all the staff were so incredible. It was the hardest thing ever leaving because of how close we got with the students and staff. I wish I was in university longer so I could go back next summer.

Any additional comments about accommodations?

The rooms had a fridge. There is a big fridge in the main 'kitchen'. The kitchen has a sink, microwave and fridge. There is 'bedding' provided, but that is just two quilts that don't cover the size of the bed, so I would recommend bringing a set of bed sheets. The rooms might be a little dirty when you arrive (that could've just been my placement though...), but you can get cheap cleaning supplies at Daiso which is just down the hill (Daiso is basically our Dollarama).

What was your favourite part of the program?

The people I met, hands down. They made every part of the experience so much better than just travelling and exploring on my own and showed us their culture and things I never would've seen without them

Was there anything you disliked about the program?

No. I wouldn't change anything.

Is there anything you suggest students pack before leaving Canada if they go on the same program?

Just bed sheets, everything is easy to find when you are there honestly

What advice would you have for future students thinking of going on this program?

Please go on this trip if you are reading this. It was the best experience I have ever had and will never forget. I am already planning a trip to see my friends from US and South Korea next summer. Thank you for this opportunity.

Was this your first time travelling abroad?

Yes

What were the biggest cultural differences you experienced?

There were several but the most notable one was the act of bowing to others as a greeting.

Was there anything you did in your free time that you would recommend to others?

Going back to Busan. We only stayed for a 2 days 1 night trip during the program so it felt a bit short. Definitely come back again on a free time.

On average, what was the weather like?

Very hot and humid, bring breathable clothes. Also quite rainy, sometimes it would rain and then stop during random intervals.

Additional comments about the city?

The city is very walkable, although I recommend using public transport because walking is difficult with the current humid weather.

What is the best way for students to travel to the university upon arrival?

Take the train from the airport to Seoul station, and then the KTX to Ulsan station. From Ulsan station, make sure you have a T-money card because they don't accept cash or credit card in busses. If there is no other option, take the taxi because you can pay by cash there. Only thing is that the taxi drivers have very little knowledge of English so make sure you know your destination in Korean.

Anything you would like to add about the University of Ulsan?

The University and its staff were so accommodating. I really enjoyed my time here.

What was your favourite part about the program?

Meeting new friends, exploring the city, and getting to try new food.

What should students pack with them?

Waterproof phone pouch (for going in the waterpark), plenty of sunscreen, breathable clothing

What would you share with future students participating in the program?

You will have the time of your life here. You will get to meet new friends that you will connect for a very long time. You will make many treasured memories.